Tasting Notes:
Recently released from the Suntory camp in time for Japan’s hot summer nights is new genre, Itadaki. Brewed with high contents of malt, yeast, and carbonation for a triple punch of flavor. Suntory notes of the use of “Umami Malt” which is stated to have a higher content of umami proteins.

Itadaki pours into the glass a bright straw, in contrast to the darker brown color of the package design. Its aroma has a nice, sharp malt with some yeastiness coming off the head, accompanied by heavy notes of alcohol. The first gulp is full up front and across the tongue, being unusually sweet. There is quite a lot of alcohol masking the more delicate flavors that may be in the background, and I can feel the effects after the first couple of gulps.

I think given the quality of new genre brews these days, I’m a little disappointed with Suntory’s Itadaki. It really isn’t one that can be enjoyed slowly over the course of appetizers. However, out of a super cold ice bath at a neighbors barbecue is where Itadaki will show its appeal as a cheap drink that will get you over the edge quickly. Just do yourself a favor and drink it cold and do drink it fast.